Two years ago, the Fiesta Commission introduced Fiesta Fiesta, a new kick-off event to be held on a Thursday night rather than the traditional Friday morning. This allowed the public to help open the festivities rather than just Fiesta’s elite. Last year, it was rained out, but in 2009 I found myself scratching my head a lot over the food options. For example, there was a falafel booth. I vomited in my mouth when I saw this booth. Nothing against falafels — I think they’re great — but you don’t open Fiesta with one in your hand. Might as well have offered chilled monkey brains or snake blood wine (once, I had the opportunity to try but declined; the wine not the brains).

Last year, at Lollapalooza in Chicago, there was much press over the Windy City’s top chefs getting involved in planning the food. It’s something Austin City Limits has been doing for a few years. And so the food might not be on par with the music, but it’s notches above carnival food.

The point is, whether the festival is about food or isn’t, food helps define the event, whether it be in selection or quality.

Luminaria’s food menu is one of several indicators this year might trump last. Just as falafels at Fiesta Fiesta confused and borderline disgusted me, I would have the same reaction if 2011 Luminaria served nothing but gorditas and fajita tacos. Just as the art is eclectic, so is the food menu. And the menu represents some of the city’s top restaurants, too. So you’re getting just the right selection as well as quality.